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About Texas Misdemeanors

Texas Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors in Texas are crimes punishable by up to one year in local or county jail. Misdemeanors are categorized as Class A, B, or C. (Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 12.03 (2019).)

Class A Misdemeanors

In Texas, Class A misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, or both jail time and a fine. Burglary of a vehicle and carrying a gun without a permit are examples of Class A misdemeanors. (Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 12.21 (2019).)

Class B Misdemeanors

Under Texas's laws, a Class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of as much as $2,000, or both. For example, possession of up to two ounces of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor. (Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 12.22 (2019).)

Class C Misdemeanors

Class C misdemeanors in Texas are punishable by a fine of up to $500. There is no jail time for a Class C misdemeanor. Any misdemeanor that is not designated as Class A, B, or C, and has no specified punishment is a Class C misdemeanor. For instance, theft of property worth less than $100 is a Class C misdemeanor. (Tex. Penal Code Ann. §§ 12.03, 12.23 (2019).)

Statutes of Limitations

When a crime is committed, the statute of limitations begins to “run,” which means that the state has a set period of time within which to begin criminal prosecution. A misdemeanor in Texas typically has a limitation period of two years. (Tex. Crim. Proc. Code Ann. § 12.02 (2019).)

Harris County, Texas

COMMISSIONERS COURT
CRIMINAL COURT AT LAW JUDGES
Texas Indigent Defense Commission